Nicky has shared his excitement ahead of the contest, stating: "Like many of us, I have grown up watching the Eurovision Song Contest.

“It always brought great excitement to our house down through the years and I was lucky enough to see Ireland win it on many occasions.

“​I have a great memory as a nine year old, of dancing around our sitting room in a tricolour sweatshirt when Johnny Logan lifted the trophy in 1987.

"The Eurovision is a TV show and song contest like no other and for the past three years my Eurovision experience has gotten better and my affiliation grown stronger, as I have proudly delivered the Irish votes live from Dublin.

"This year I go one step further, and actually walk on that stage to represent my country, I am honoured RTÉ have chosen me and believe in this song like I do."

The UK are yet to choose their 2016 entry, with the power to decide who should be chosen finally being handed back to the public.